As automakers go, developing well received models is a chore all on its own. When a model becomes a triumph, as has the Chrysler 300C, the result is favorable press coverage, high purchaser satisfaction ratings, and a “halo” effect that can extend to the entire product line. Chrysler’s 300C is a success, but the German-American automaker isn’t stopping there. A stretched version of the car is being developed, one that could find a following amongst enthusiasts, but only if the price is right.
So, why would DaimlerChrysler allow a stretched version of the 300C? For several reasons including:
The Limousine Market - Although the 300C isn’t on the same level as the Lincoln Town Car or Cadillac DTS, the automobile does struggle with the Ford Crown Victoria. Thus , taxi and limousine operators will be drawn to the stretched 300C as the vehicle gives its passengers the room that they need.
The Pursuit Market - The Ford Crown Victoria is the hottest police pursuit auto followed by the Chevy Impala. Chrysler way back conceded this market when they quit building larger rear wheel drive vehicles. The stretched 300C could fit in nicely and give the automaker some additional sales to boost market share. Look for a likewise stretched Dodge Charger to also be built once 300C demand has been proven.
The Luxury Market - No, the 300C isn’t a luxury vehicle, but a model coming down the pike 3-4 years from now will be. Yes, the Chrysler Imperial will be returning and it, too, will be. Yes, the 300C, but even longer and bigger than the stretched version of the 300C. Don’t think for a moment that DaimlerChrysler will not be measuring requirement for its new 300C to determine Imperial demand.
For the record, there are a few things that we know about the bigger 300C: the car will be stretched only by six inches and all of those gains will show up in the rear passenger area. In addition, Chrysler will not be building the stretched 300C, instead an outside supplier will handle the job of taking existing inches and redoing them.
Prices for the bigger 300C have not been finished yet, but they may carry a premium of as much as $5000 over the shorter model. This is a concern, as the price may be more than what some livery drivers could justify. Perhaps DaimlerChrysler will eat some of the expenses and hold the price down to a $1000 premium. If they don’t, the company could be in for a rude awakening and find demand for the stretched 300C to be luke warm at best.
Do you like fast cars? If yes, you may also visit thesupercars.org to get more information about the fastest cars in the world. Also, you might want to check out used Chrysler Cirrus.
Tags: Chrysler, chrysler 300c, luxury car, used chrysler 300c